Pan-Seared Chicken with Smoky Chipotle and Tomato Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender chicken breasts pan-seared and simmered in a smoky chipotle tomato sauce with garlic and onions for a rich, spicy finish. This mexican-inspired chicken ready in about 35 minutes blends salt, black pepper, olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 25 min Serves 4 Mexican cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Season 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper evenly on both sides.
  2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 1 medium finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
  4. Step 4: Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 2 finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the skillet, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Stir in 14 oz canned diced tomatoes, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Simmer the sauce for 8-10 minutes until slightly thickened and flavors meld.
  6. Step 6: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cook together for 2-3 minutes to reheat.
  7. Step 7: Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Chicken with Smoky Chipotle and Tomato Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (10 min prep + 25 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Chicken with Smoky Chipotle and Tomato Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Seared Chicken with Smoky Chipotle and Tomato Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pan-Seared Chicken with Smoky Chipotle and Tomato Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Pan-Seared Chicken with Smoky Chipotle and Tomato Sauce?

Mexican chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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